Swan Hill – water temperature at Murray River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Swan Hill, located on the Murray River in Victoria. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Murray River at Swan Hill today is 21°C.
Water Temperature in Murray River at Swan Hill: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
While water temperatures in Swan Hill declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Swan Hill will be 22.4°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 22.5°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.5°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 20.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.8°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 23.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 23.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 21.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 21.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 20 | 21.3°C | 22.5°C | 21.3°C |
| Mar 21 | 22.5°C | 21.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 22.5°C | 21.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 22.5°C | 21.8°C | |
| Mar 24 | 22.5°C | 21.9°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.5°C | 22.1°C | |
| Mar 26 | 22.5°C | 22.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.5°C | 22.4°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| February | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| March | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| May | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Swan Hill sits on a broad bend of the Murray River in north-western Victoria, and the water temperature here follows the hot inland climate of the Mallee. Through summer, from December to February, the river around Swan Hill is usually warm, commonly sitting between about 24 and 27 °C, with shallow edges heating up quickly during long hot spells. In autumn, temperatures ease back to around 18–22 °C. Winter brings a noticeable drop, with the river often sitting between 11 and 14 °C, which can feel pretty cold even on sunny days. As spring arrives, the water gradually warms again, typically reaching 16–20 °C by late October or November, depending on sunshine and river flows.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Murray at Swan Hill is allowed and is a common summer pastime for locals and visitors. The river here is wide and generally slow-moving, which suits relaxed swimming and floating rather than fast water activities. Popular spots are usually along the calmer banks, away from boat traffic. While the water quality is generally suitable for recreation, blue-green algae warnings can occur in hot, still conditions, and people tend to check local advice before heading in. Overall, Swan Hill offers comfortable summer water temperatures and easygoing river swimming, especially when the heat really sets in.